The Data Protection Act
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Everyone who is responsible for using data has to follow strict rules called ‘data protection principles’. They must make sure the information is:
used fairly and lawfully
- used for limited, specifically stated purposes
- used in a way that is adequate, relevant and not excessive
- accurate
- kept for no longer than is absolutely necessary
- handled according to people’s data protection rights
- kept safe and secure
- not transferred outside the UK without adequate protection.
There is stronger legal protection for more sensitive information, such as:
- ethnic background
- political opinions
- religious beliefs
- health
- sexual health
- criminal records.
Find out what data an organisation has about you
The Data Protection Act gives you the right to find out what information the Government and other organisations stores about you.
Write to the organisation and ask for a copy of the information they hold about you. If you do not know who in the organisation to write to, address y...
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